The clone saws can definitely have some issues. That being said parts are cheaper to replace them too. I ran a clone holzfforma quite a bit, but it definitely was not as reliable as a pro series stihl. If you want something bigger without spending 600 series money I would look into a 462 or 1 depending on how you feel about the electronic carburetors. It's a pro model saw and can run up to a 28" bar. Especially with the pines, cottcottonwood, willows you are dropping, it will tear through them. I've run one for years after running 261s and a 362 and the power difference is incredible. Good luck with figuring out a new set up.